What is an example of controlled unclassified information?

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) refers to information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls pursuant to laws, regulations, or government-wide policies, but is not classified. Military training materials often fit into this category, particularly when they contain sensitive information that, while not classified, must still be protected from unauthorized access or distribution. These materials may include details about tactics, techniques, or procedures used in military training that could benefit adversaries if disclosed. Hence, marking them as CUI helps ensure that they are handled properly in line with security protocols.

In contrast, friendship letters, intelligence reports that are marked for distribution, and public health announcements do not typically fall under the CUI category because they lack the specific government-related sensitivity designation that would require controlled access. Friendship letters are personal correspondence, while intelligence reports marked for distribution may carry a different classification depending on their content and intent. Public health announcements are usually disseminated for public knowledge and information sharing, thus not subject to the same restrictions as controlled unclassified information.